FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

A. Many existing antennas will be able to receive digital transmissions without any problem, but in some cases equipment may need to be upgraded to receive reliable digital signals.

You will need to find out if the current TV antenna is designed for the same band of operation that the digital TV broadcasts in the area will be transmitted on. In some cases it will need to be upgraded because the new digital channels are in a new frequency band or because the antenna is older or not in good condition. You can find the best antenna and accessories for your area by speaking to Cables & Wires. With the digital switchover completed in 2012, most antennas today have been manufactured specifically to receive digital channels (particularly those made after 2007). You can have your antenna system assessed by Cables & Wires to find out whether it needs to be replaced.

2. I live in a flat that uses a communal system, can I still get Freeview?

A. Your building may need to upgrade its antenna system in order to ensure good quality access to digital TV. This may be necessary if, for example, components are broken, corroded, outdated or of poor quality.

You will need to find out if the current TV antenna is designed for the same band of operation that the digital TV broadcasts in the area will be transmitted on. In some cases it will need to be upgraded either because the new digital channels are in a new frequency band or because the antenna is older or not in good condition and can't receive adequate signal.

The building's antenna system (including cabling) can be assessed by Cables & Wires who has experience in master antenna TV (MATV) systems to find out if it needs to be replaced or upgraded.

3. I have very poor TV reception, what can I do about it?

A. There are a number of factors that might lead to poor reception of digital television services. These may include the following:

Weather conditions, which can cause digital reception to break up or 'pixelate'.

Signal obstructions, such as the immediate local terrain, foliage, buildings and trees. You may be living in what is known as a reception "black spot".

The signal received may be too weak or too strong to allow the HDTV to generate a stable picture.

'Impulse noise' interference which may be generated by the use of household items such as domestic appliances, light switches, fridges, hair dryers, air conditioners, computers, wireless network equipment (Wi-Fi) and cordless phones. Moving the devices away from the antenna source can decrease the level of interference.

How far you are from the transmitting Mast. The further away your nearest transmission Mast, the worse quality reception you will have.

Condition and age of your antenna. The average age for antennae in the UK is around 5 years old, and the average householder only services or upgrades their antenna every 12 years. Lots can happen in those 12 years, the antenna can deteriorate as can the cabling, the local environment can change, new structures can be built in the line of sight and there are ongoing changes happening to the networks - such as the current move towards digital TV.

Changes to your TV or home entertainment set up, e.g., additional TV points or outlets, changing the physical location of your external antenna, adjusting the direction of your external antenna.

Condition of your Television. The age of your television may be a contributing factor to poor picture quality and signaling.

4. Why do you install different types, sizes and qualities of aerials?

The usual considerations when selecting a suitable aerial include:

To provide 'trouble free' reception for the TV's.

To overcome any reception issues i.e. weak signal, interference etc.

To provide adequate reception to two or more TV's via a splitter or amplifier.

To have a robust installation, one which will withstand the weather i.e. ensure it will not collapse at the first breath of wind.

5. How will I know which aerial to have fitted?

A good starting point is to book an appointment for a Free No Obligation Survey & Quotation. On arrival we will check the signal with a meter and explain (in plain English) the options. You can then either have the work carried out or decline our quotation. There is No Charge for this service.

6. Why do the installation costs vary?

Our charges are very competitive compared to national professional installers. The Lowest Price Installation at £50 + vat, and our Basic Installation are similar to supermarket 'white label' goods, they are our 'No Frills' options. On the other hand, the mechanical quality, superior performance and longer guarantee periods of our Standard & Professional Installations appeal to customers requiring quality, performance and value.

If you are experiencing poor reception of digital TV, try one of the following:

Re-tune your TV.

Check that your cables and connection points running between your television or set top box and the wall socket are in good condition and connected properly. RG-6 coaxial-shielded cables will block out interference and screw-in F connectors will ensure connectivity.